Honka's skills with the puck are incredible and he is toughto stop 1-on-1 (Photo Credit: Shawn Mullin)

Honka, whose move to North America has suited his style
well, has been impressing in his rookie campaign with Swift Current. Playing
well offensively, with 36 points in 35 games, Honka had also earned a spot in
the CHL Prospects Game. The talented defender picked up one goal and an assist
in the game before leaving after taking a stick to the face. He didn’t return
to the game and was unable to speak with the media, hopefully it didn’t do too
much damage.

The injury occurred while Honka was trying to line up a
check, but what really stands out about this young Finn is his offense. His
coach, Mark Lamb, lauds his defenders skating, puck handling and shooting
abilities. He reads the game well, displays great vision and is excellent with
the puck on his stick. He has a quick release on his wrist shot but can also
unleash a howitzer from the point. It should come as no surprise that he tries
to pattern his game around Ottawa’s Erik Karlsson.

He does need to concentrate more on his defensive game, but
is quick on the transition and is good at getting back in the zone. His plus
skating ability, which is a weapon offensively also helps him in his defensive
game. And despite his smaller stature, Honka does have some grit in his game
and displays a fearlessness in his willingness to engage.

Playing on the smaller ice should prove beneficial for his defensive
development. But it will be impossible to overlook his offensive ability. Hard
to contain with the puck on his stick, it shouldn’t take too long to hear his
name called in June.